USFS: Backcountry areas closed to camping except PCT and Desolation Wilderness

The U.S. Forest Service tonight added additional restrictions to its previously announced fire restrictions and closures of campgrounds and day use areas on U.S. Forest Service land in California and the Lake Tahoe Basin starting September 7 at 5:00 p.m.

There is now an emergency camping prohibition that goes into effect on Tuesday, September 8, 2020.

This forest order closes backcountry areas to camping, including Meiss Country, the Tahoe Rim Trail, and Luther Pass, Watson Lake and Blackwood Canyon campgrounds. This is until September 14 when conditions will be reevaluated.

Overnight camping will still be permitted in Desolation Wilderness and within 500 feet of the Pacific Crest Trail. No campfires or stoves are permitted.

The closures and restrictions are due to the unprecedented and dangerous fire conditions and extreme heat, significant wind events, dry conditions, and firefighting resources that are stretched to the limit.

To view all USFS emergency orders - https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/ltbmu/notices/?cid=STELPRDB5114409.